It happened so fast. I said goodbye to my beloved Chief today...

[Navy Chief]

I am still in shock. This past Monday, I took Chief to see a vet eye specialist, as I had noticed a spot in his right eye. The spot turned out to be a tumor. Coincidentally, the next morning, Chief would not eat, but I just figured that was because I'd given him some bread from a sandwich, and had upset his stomach.

But this morning, around 10:30, he threw up. That scared me. I took him to my local vet. They did an xray, and found a large mass in his stomach.

What happened next, still has me reeling. They referred me to a vet, south of Fort Myers. As soon as I got there, they took Chief back to do an ultrasound, and blood work.

About one hour later, I returned to get the results.

It was like being hit in my stomach. The vet said my poor Chief was riddled with cancer, including several nodules on his lungs.

I was immediately overcome with grief. It was horrible. I knew what I had to decide, and it ripped me apart to do it.

So, about 15 minutes later, as I held Chief's head in my lap, and I told him how much I loved him; crying uncontrollably.... I said goodbye to my best friend.

God, I miss him so.

NC

[PRB]

Dammit Pete! You've been posting pics of "Chief" and talking about him for a long time here. It was clear he was special to you. This is horrible news. I am shocked to hear this, and saddened. RIP, Chief! :(

[johnh_049]

as much as you talked about him and all the pics you've posted, this is kind of like losing a pet myself.
sympathy goes out to you.
RIP Chief :engel016:

[andersel]

Navy Chief - I think that I can feel at lewast some of your pain. I've lost two of my dogs, friends that had been with me for 15 years, in the last year and a half. It can't get easier. I hope that you find a way to come to terms with such a greivous loss. My thoughts are with you.

LA

[gigabyte]

This is such a shock, we all know that Chief was a huge part of your family, it is always heart breaking to lose a trusted family member especially like this. It is a small blessing that he did not suffer and you were with him, as tough as it is to be there when it happens you did what you had to do.

RIP Chief, :salute:

[HouseHobbit]

I am heartbroken to hear of you loss..
Very sorry that you have lost your friend..
God Bless you..

[Navy Chief]

Thanks to everyone who has read this post, commented, and well....just understand what the grief of losing a friend like my Chief is like.

I appreciate all the comments. You all know how much I loved Chief. I remember the day my wife brought him home. He was five weeks old. Looked like a little bear cub.

I knew this day would arrive. I just didn't expect it to happen so quick. I suppose it is for the best, so Chief would not suffer.

But it hurts so much to let them go.

NC

[N2056]

Chief was such a big part of your life that really in many ways he was a member here. How terribly sad to have this happen to him. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

God Bless,
Robert

[FAC257]

That is just terrible news. I enjoyed all of your posts with Chief.

At least you were there with him at the end.

FAC

[Smashing Time]

My thoughts are with you. Peace

[Tako_Kichi]

As an animal lover myself my thoughts are with you at this time NC. It's always a hard decision to make but invariably the best for our furry friends IMHO.

[Roger]

Such a shame. My thoughts are with you.

[TARPSBird]

NC, I am so sorry to read of Chief's passing. Having been previously owned by Rotties, I know what great dogs they are and I know what a special friend Chief was to you. Hold on to your fond memories of him, he'll always be there for you. :engel016:

[SSI01]

I am very sorry to hear about your loss, especially at this time of year.

Our oldest grandchild, age 21, was killed accidentally by a police officer last year, two days before my retirement from the same profession. Our grandson's dog, Smoky, was the brother of our dog - my wife acquired him when I was TDY'd to the Middle East in late 2000 and our daughter got the other one. My grandson and his dog were inseparable. They both enjoyed ice cream and Jacob, my grandson, was not above allowing Smoky a surreptitious lick on the cone when mom wasn't looking.

After Jacob's death, the family took Smoky to the viewing as he was the same as any other member of the family and it was common knowledge he and the dog were very close. I was not there but I was told Smoky climbed up and looked into Jacob's casket, then sniffed around as if he were looking for Jacob and refusing to believe that was him in that box. He finally gave up looking around the room and lay down in the rear. After he went home with the rest of the family he refused to touch his food or even have a drink.

Three days later my wife, who had been with the family as soon as she heard about Jacob's death, was called downstairs by my son-in-law who told her Smoky had died early that morning. My son-in-law and daughter took him to the same crematorium that handled my grandson, and returned the ashes to the family along with Jacob's.

Regardless of what anyone says I am convinced there is a bond between certain select owners and their pets, in particular dogs, that lasts beyond the grave. I have told my wife Smoky's death set a seal on Jacob's as well. They now have each other for company. It is obvious you and Chief shared the same kind of bond. I again offer my condolences in your loss.

[Dain Arns]

I know where you are at right now.
I had to make that decision a couple years ago with my Mikei.
It still bothers me from time to time, but there was no other choice to be made.
I just felt so bad because she hated going to the vet so much.
They never seem to let you know there is problem with them until it is too late.
They don't want you to worry about them.

[mrogers]

So sorry about Chief, what a blow...how terrible. I can understand your grief and pain, very sad. I've lost my own dogs over past years and it was heart wrenching to have lost them.

Chief had so many happy years with you - that was good.

[Jagdflieger]

I am so sorry to hear of your loss.

A good dog is more than just a pet, he is part of the family. Always loyal, always happy to see you and always with good cheer, even when you're down.I lost my Brittany, my best ever hunting dog, last April and I still haven't filled the void. I too had to make the decision, but at least I held him in his last minutes.

"If dogs don't go to heaven, then I want to go where the dogs go." By Will Rogers.

A Dog's Prayer (author unknown):

[Navy Chief]

Chief rarely showed evidence of being in pain, ever. That's why it was such a shock to find out just how sick he was. As recent as three days ago, he was his normal goofy self; jumping around, and giving love to anyone he came in contact with.

That dog brought me immeasurable joy and companionship. Chief was the brother I never had. My best friend. Pete

54951

[Javis]

Can't tell you how sorry i am to read this, Pete.... Writing this with a lump in my throat.. Lost my dog 2 months ago.. He died underneath my hands of an instant heart failure..

My thoughts are with you, my friend, wish you all the strenght in the world to get through this extremely sad period in your life. Comfort yourself with the thought that Chief couldn't have had a better life than he had with you.

RIP Chief and say hello to my beloved Eddie when you meet him upthere..

Hang in there, Pete

[Chacha]

Oh man, it is a shocking news NC...
Hannah and I are very saddened to hear about Chief...

May he rest in peace.
We lift you up in prayer, may you be comforted...

[Roadburner440]

Pete that is insane!! My sincere condolences for the loss of Chief.. I cannot believe that. All of the photos you have posted of him he always looked to be in the best of health. It is unreal how fast this stuff sets in. It is going to be difficult, but I hope you find peace and can move on. I know I would be devistated if something like that happened to my one cat as he is always by my side. We had a scare with him about a year ago where he would not stop throwing up, and I thought he was going to die. Several hundred dollars, and numerous vet visits/bloodwork later they never did figure it out. Hopefully Chief went peacefully though. In my book you did the right thing. It is just ashame that it had to come to that.

[OBIO]

NC

I am truly sorry to read this news....and am crying as I type this. I have seen many pics of Chief and have saved most of them to my HD to be part of my scrolling photo screen saver. He was a beautiful dog and clearly one who was loved much and who returned that love. I don't have words to ease your pain, to fill the hole in your heart, or to stop you from looking around for your bestest bud....I don't believe those words have been invented in this world yet.

I know that one day, I will have to make decisions like this for the two pooches/fur children that Deb and I love. Brutus, our "big" boy will be 6 in March.....though he is a mix of two breeds who are known for long lives (Chihuahua and Jack Russell Terrier), his mom had to be put to sleep due to wide spread cancer....and she was just over 8 years of age. When you bring an animal into your family, you always know that one day you are going to have to say good bye to them....it just sucks like hell when that day comes...especially when it is out of the blue due to seizures or cancer or some other unexpected ailment or accident.

Thank you for sharing Chief with us....and for allowing us to grieve with you at his loss.

OBIO

[glh]

My sincerest condolences on the loss of your best friend.

[Dangerousdave26]

Pete

My wife and I know how you feel.

Our condolences go out to you.

[Bone]

Aww man, I'm very sorry to hear about your buddy-dog Chief. I have felt the pain before, so I know what you're going through. Terrible news.

[beana51]

Sorry for your loss.... Most Sad!....

[sbp]

Pete,

I weep with you in your unbearable heart break for your beloved Chief. I have dreaded this situation when it will happen to my yellow lab, Cooper. My best friend is 8 years old now. Tonight, I will hold him tighter and longer and will tell Cooper of your loss of Chief and what a wonderful friend Chief was to you.


sbp

[Daveroo]

Pete,,im sorry to hear about Chief,,,,weve all come to feel a love for him here in your posts about him..i believe we as a group will miss him...

makes me worry about my haley,,she is 16 now ...i dread the day..

[Gdavis101]

Sorry for your loss and I don't think words can really fill the empty void that is left, but I feel for you and my thoughts are with you..

[FlameOut]

I'm with you NC. I'm right there in that dark shadow of despair. I too have had to make that decsion...and will again, one day, with my current "little girl". The best Cocker Spaniel ever. My prayers are with you. Old Chief is by your side.

[Flyboy208]

I am so sorry to hear of this ... I just lost my Lab-mix Liam 6 months ago, still reeling from that heartbreak. All the best to you Chief. Mike

[Navy Chief]

So many friends, so many sentiments of sympathy. Thank you all.

Grief is so painful. Yet I thank God for every day I had Chief. Not a day passed that I didn't hug Chief and tell him that I loved him so very much. Many times each day, I would do that......

When we still lived in TN, Chief and I would walk the length of my driveway (about 800 ft) each night, for his nightly potty break. On the way back to the house, he would stop several times, and look up at me. That was his queue for me to hug him, which I did...again and again.

Pete

[hews500d]

Chief, my thoughts are with you during this difficult time. It's never easy making the decision. We had to make that decision twice this year, once in January with our seal point Siamese, Ling, and then a couple weeks ago with our flame point Siamese, Ziggy. I still get teary eyed thinking of them.

Here's to hoping 2012 is a better year for all of us, 2011 sure as hell has had its share of trying experiences.:guinness:

Darrell

[Navy Chief]

Chief, my thoughts are with you during this difficult time. It's never easy making the decision. We had to make that decision twice this year, once in January with our seal point Siamese, Ling, and then a couple weeks ago with our flame point Siamese, Ziggy. I still get teary eyed thinking of them.

Here's to hoping 2012 is a better year for all of us, 2011 sure as hell has had its share of trying experiences.:guinness:

Darrell

Thanks Darrell.

My seal point Siamese, Twist, is my saving grace right now. Twist sleeps under the covers next to me, and is such a comfort. He knows something is wrong though. He has been crying his characteristic Siamese meowrrrrr more than normal tonight. Pete

[Cag40Navy]

Well, Im sorry NC. I know what your going thru. I had one go thru the same.

[Bushpounder]

I am so sorry to hear of your loss, Chief. Hang in there, my friend. I always smiled at the great pictures you posted of Chief.

Don

[Tom Clayton]

Pete, I know exactly how you feel, having had to make the same decision three times in the last two decades. As for Twist, dogs and cats both have an uncanny ability to sense when we need comfort and are happy to give it.

[muletrain]

Very sorry to hear of your loss NC.
:-(

[Willy]

I'm sorry to hear this. Cancer is something that I wish they could eradicate in both people and animals. We lost my father in law to it on the 11th.

[Flyboy208]

Pete, the best advice I can give is to remember the great times you had with your Buddy, time does help, and for me at the now 6 month mark I can tell the stories of how goofy my Liam was ... Mike

[crashaz]

So sorry to hear of your loss Chief.

[PeteHam]

Chief, I feel your grief and I'm sorry to read of the loss of your mate.

Several years ago we took our cat to the Vet only to be told she had a tumor in the face. We had a few quiet moments with her before the Vet did what was the only humane thing. I still miss her.

I weep at you loss and pray for God's comfort for you.

Pete.

[Astoroth]

So sorry to hear about Chief, Pete. It has been obvious to anyone here how much you loved him, and he loved you.

Hang in there buddy, we're here for you!

Joe

[phrog_phixer]

Sincere condolences, Navy Chief. I share in your grief; I lost my beloved black lab Nero in November.

Ken, AD1(AW) USN (Ret.)

[papab]

Chief,
I am so sorry for your loss
Here is something that might help ease the pain a little bit:


The Rainbow Bridge Poem

Just this side of heaven is a place called the Rainbow Bridge.When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to the Rainbow Bridge.

There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. hose who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers.

Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again.The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head. You look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together…

[Montie]

I am sorry for you loss. I know how painful it is, hang in there.

[Crusader]

NC,

I certainly echo everyone's feelings and sentiments here . I also am one who had to make this terrible decision about fifteen years ago . I had a beautiful sable and white male Collie named Rusty . I am not ashamed to admit that old "Rusty" and I would go out into the fields and woods which he dearly loved and I would constantly talk to him as though he were human . Everyone has mentioned the family member role our pets take on but as you and others have stated they quickly become a "best friend " . By nature a Collie is not an aggressive breed but he instinctively knew that I would protect him and without a doubt he would sense if someone was potentially harmful or a threat to me . On a few rare occasions he showed he teeth while growling . Unheard of in a Collie as they are very docile and playful which he was.

NC , I share your grief . Nothing or no one can ever erase the memories away of our "Best Friends" . Mine has lasted fifteen years and will last until the day I die . My wife has tried many times to convince me I need to get another dog that it would be very therapeutic for me . It probably would but at my age(64) I'm not sure I could go through the sad experience of a loss again . At least I am thinking of getting another .

R.I.P. Chief , you are in the company of a lot "Very Special Friends" to all of us .

Rich

[Ickie]

my dog Haney is 12 and has pancreatitis and has been on and off sick for 14 months.
Last night she was fine and playing when we went to bed, and at 2:30 am she woke me up. I took her for a 3 am walk and she got worse and worse. @ 3:30 am, I gave her 125 MG's of trimodal and now she is asleep at my feet on her bed.
I know your pain as I have said good by to her many times over the past year.

[Roadburner440]

Chief, my thoughts are with you during this difficult time. It's never easy making the decision. We had to make that decision twice this year, once in January with our seal point Siamese, Ling, and then a couple weeks ago with our flame point Siamese, Ziggy. I still get teary eyed thinking of them.

Here's to hoping 2012 is a better year for all of us, 2011 sure as hell has had its share of trying experiences.:guinness:

Darrell


Figured Siamese cats would have pretty long lives.. We have a tortie point Himalayan that we got from a shelter (don't know how he wound up there). Wonderful cat, but all we know is his "approximate" age. I do dread the day he gets something though, as I do not think I would be able to bear it. Follows me all over the house, and wants me to carry him everywhere. Certaintly the best non-human friend I have ever had.

[rayrey10]

Sorry to hear about your loss!

[av8erjm]

Chief I really don't know you at all, but I really do feel your pain and am sincerely sorry for your loss especially at this time of year. Having been the Grim Reaper for sereval of my families pups it never gets any easier. Like I said we've had sereval dogs in the wifes and I 42 year marriage as well as growing up w/ all kinds of hounds in my youth and please don't anyone take offense at what I'm about to say but we now are raising a Rottie, who just turned 1 yr on Thanksgiving, I have never had a more loving dog than Raina from the first lick in the face in the morning ( I no longer have a alarm clock) to the goodnite lick before she lays down at the foot of the bed. My only hope is that she'll outlive me so I won't have to say goodbye to her. Anyway not to promote any dog breeders but if you decide to get another Rottie PM me and I'd be glad to to give you the name of Raina's kenel, they are not a puppy mill but a very responsible breeder, it took me 2 years before i decided on them. So in closing I say again that both the wife and I are sorry for your loss

[Little Chacha]

Sorry to hear about Chief's leaving you the way he did. I do not know what to say I can imagine when I lost my good friend Cotton. I was sad... My Mom tried to get a new Cotton for me but it was not the same....... the friendship the bonding the connection... But do not be sad Mr. Navy Chief, your friend Chief is in Rainbow Bridge heaven for our furry friends.... I want to give you a big hug......... I wish you a happy Christmas! bye from Hannah :wavey:

[norab]

I am so sorry to hear this. felt like I knew your Chief from your posts. Words are so inadequete at times, but I know how much we love our pets and I grieve with you.

[jbtate]

Petting my 18 year old cat Amelia in respects of your Chief.
jbtate

[HouseHobbit]

I know the loss of losing a beloved pet..
You are in my prayers..
May Our Lord bring some peace into your life this Christmas eve..

God Bless you, Pete..

:engel016:

[mikezola]

NavyChief,

Please allow me to express my sympathy as well... 13 months ago my companion of 12 years, my cat Pepper, died in my arms while her vet tried to save her. I'm still feeling that loss- so I can appreciate your pain at this time...

Best Wishes- Mike Z.

[Navy Chief]

I am overwhelmed by all of your responses. Truly, I feel so grateful for the outpouring of sympathy shared by you all.

This morning, I took all of Chief's toys, his bed, canned food, and his water/food bowls to the local Goodwill.

I was ok until someone asked me how old Chief was, and I lost it. One of the employees came up and hugged me. It was more than I could bear, and I cried and cried.

It's all part of the grieving process; I know. This morning was difficult. I woke up to a quiet apartment. My loving Siamese, Twist, was next to me (not-so-patiently) waiting to be fed. But I noticed a perceptible stillness; one that normally would have been filled by Chief's snoring. Little things, like some of his hair on the floor - remain. And I feel that pain in my heart. I know this will take time.

But thank you all for your support. It means so much.

Pete

[brad kaste]

Sorry to read of your personal loss. I know Chief meant a lot to you that words can't describe.

[hey_moe]

Sorry to hear you lost your best friend. You have talked about your best buddy since I have been a member here and I know he was the love of your life. There is nothing anyone can say to help you through the hurt, but we are all here to support you in every way....Mike

[dmaloof]

So sorry to hear of this! so close to holiday too. My condolences. I lost my cat mach 2 years ago in october to cancer. he was 9. He too had symptoms of throwup of bile and it was so subtle and after seeign the vets for treatment for a month, he went. I still miss him.

[Ickie]

since 2:3 am it has been a rough day for Haney and me, but I think she is going to pull through again.

=========================
23th
5 pm had supper 1/3 can of pedigree weight control
6 pm took a walk and pooped a bunch, hard and brown
9pm went to bed everything was fine.
24th
2:30 am she woke me up in bad pain
3am took her for a walk and she peed
3:30 am tried to feed her and she would not eat or drink
so i gave her 1.5 tabs of tramadol
all morning she wouldn't eat or drink and layed by my feet on her bed
9 am i forced some milk into her
11 am took her for a walk and she peed alot, yellow and cloudy but no blood.
11:30 am 1 gave her 1 more tab of tramadol (note 8 hours since last pill)
noon I forced with a straw some milk into her.
1:30 she ate some American kraft cheese, 2 slices
I had to help her on the couch she had no strength.
2 pm she is just lieing there on the couch.
2:30 she ate another slice of cheese
5:30 gave her egg yoke by fingers, she wouldn't eat by herself.
5:45 too her for a little walk and she peed no blood seen and yellow.
after 25 yards her back legs started shaking so we came home.
6 PM i have her 1/2 rimadol pill and a slice of cheese note she jumped on coutch by herself.
7 PM gave her a few onces of water with my fingers and there is
nothing wrong with her tongue, but she wont drink my herself.
8 PM I got her to lick more water from my fingers and than a glass full on her own.
I got a bowl and she drank about 1/2 of it.
this is a good sign.
8:15 got her to drink the other 1/2 bowl of water
than 1/2 bag of soft dog food.
for awhile today i thought she wasn't going to make it.

[Navy Chief]

Ickie,

I will pray that Haney gets better. I am so thankful for having pets throughout my life. All of them have brought me such joy. As I type this, my loving Twist is on my lap, purring.

Pete

[luckydog]

I had the priviledge of meeting Chief last year on a motorcycle trip to Texas.....
He was the most sweetest, friendliest, slobbery, Rott I've ever met !!!

RIP Chief !! You were truly a special dog !!

LD

[robert41]

Sorry to hear NC. Very sad.

[Daveroo]

I am overwhelmed by all of your responses. Truly, I feel so grateful for the outpouring of sympathy shared by you all.

This morning, I took all of Chief's toys, his bed, canned food, and his water/food bowls to the local Goodwill.

I was ok until someone asked me how old Chief was, and I lost it. One of the employees came up and hugged me. It was more than I could bear, and I cried and cried.

It's all part of the grieving process; I know. This morning was difficult. I woke up to a quiet apartment. My loving Siamese, Twist, was next to me (not-so-patiently) waiting to be fed. But I noticed a perceptible stillness; one that normally would have been filled by Chief's snoring. Little things, like some of his hair on the floor - remain. And I feel that pain in my heart. I know this will take time.

But thank you all for your support. It means so much.

Pete






well poop......i read that and became emotional..got tears in my eyes.....ive seen some terrible things in my life,having been in a local fire department at a time when we did runs out of our service area with a "heavy rescue"..saw alot of stuff,,ive never been one to "break down"....but animals upset me deeply....i guess its my reliese from reality...i never met Chief,,just read about him...and im sittin here with tears,partly because of his loss,my beloved bandit and im looking at Miss Haley,,,who is currantly slapping and biting at me while i type...seems im irritating her.............sigh...godlove her

[Ickie]

well after a shakey wakeup Haney is doing much better.
it took her 2 hours to eat and start her drinking of water.
I just took her for her late morning walk and I found out what was causing her illness.
The bright yellow poop tells me it was an attack of her pancreas, the worst one she has ever had.
normally she has always ate and drank, but not yesterday, she just layed there unresponsive, I had to feel her to see if she was still breathing, I really thought I lost her this time. If she was a cat .... well she has already used up them 9 lives.
She is going on 12.

[Navy Chief]

well poop......i read that and became emotional..got tears in my eyes.....ive seen some terrible things in my life,having been in a local fire department at a time when we did runs out of our service area with a "heavy rescue"..saw alot of stuff,,ive never been one to "break down"....but animals upset me deeply....i guess its my reliese from reality...i never met Chief,,just read about him...and im sittin here with tears,partly because of his loss,my beloved bandit and im looking at Miss Haley,,,who is currantly slapping and biting at me while i type...seems im irritating her.............sigh...godlove her



Thanks for your kind words, Dave. I am thinking that maybe next Spring I will retrieve one of the cats my ex has, up in North Carolina. She has a lot of cats, and I think Twist needs a companion. Until moving here, Twist had two other buddies. But I need just a little more space. I feel bad when closing my apartment door, with Twist all alone inside. He needs someone to play with.

I am headed to the local American Legion Post for a ham dinner. Truthfully, the last thing I want to do is be around other people. But it is important that I am. Just staying here, I keep thinking of the emptiness I feel without my Chief. Pete

[Navy Chief]

well after a shakey wakeup Haney is doing much better.
it took her 2 hours to eat and start her drinking of water.
I just took her for her late morning walk and I found out what was causing her illness.
The bright yellow poop tells me it was an attack of her pancreas, the worst one she has ever had.
normally she has always ate and drank, but not yesterday, she just layed there unresponsive, I had to feel her to see if she was still breathing, I really thought I lost her this time. If she was a cat .... well she has already used up them 9 lives.
She is going on 12.

Ickie,

I am so glad Haney is doing better. So do you have medicine specifically for her pancreas problems? Pete

[Ickie]

the only meds are pain narcotics and rimadol. low fat food and not much exercise, short walks is about all.

[Daveroo]

the only meds are pain narcotics and rimadol. low fat food and not much exercise, short walks is about all.


Hi Ickie..im hoping for the best for Hanie...been thinking of you and NC all day...and the buddies...twist ,hanie,haley,and all our furry friends need to have a good day

[rhumbaflappy]

Hi NC.

I am so sorry for your loss. My dog is my closest companion... even closer to me, at times, than my dear wife.

Earlier this year, I had the honor of holding a friend's dog as she was put down. Ed O'Brien was 87 years old, a WW2 vet, a combat Marine Sargent of the Pacific... unable due to his age, of attending his dear friend's farewell.

Ed himself died a month ago, surrounded by family and friends. He was buried with military honors in our hometown, where he lived all his live, excepting the grisly Pacific Theatre.

I hope your grief is mellowed by the happy memories of your Chief. Remember to mix a few laughs with the tears.

Dick

[Ickie]

Haney is down again, all it took was a too long of a walk, 200 yards, by the time we got home I had to carry her in and put her on the coutch. I gave her a tramadol (light narcotic). She is just laying there looking at me.
This time she is still eating and drinking water so this is good, maybe resting this afternoon she will feel better.

[SpitXIV]

My sympathies are with you sir, I believe that we'll see our pets in heaven. Sad that you had to lose him during the holidays. :(

[noddy]

Really sorry to hear about the loss of Chief, he was one fine dog.

[Navy Chief]

I was thankful for every day Chief was with me. And my little Siamese, Twist, is such a comfort. The grief is difficult to bear, but Twist is always there, wanting affection. His "purr engine" is pretty much non-stop.

My sister, her husband, and two of sis's girl friends will be here from the 28th to the 2nd, so I'll have some company soon; which is good. These past two days have been rough. But I must add that everyone's posts have really helped me. They truly have.

So many of you have conveyed how much you felt like you knew Chief, just from the posts I'd made about him. And that was my intention; to try and share what a character he was. Lucky Dog had the chance to meet him, and knows what I mean......

The vet who took care of Chief (from the time he was 5 weeks old, until I moved here this past July) called me the night of the 23rd. He told me how special Chief was. Yes, he'd met many friendly Rotties in his career, but Chief was extraordinarily happy to see everyone.

Pete

[GT182]

Holy crap! I'm so sorry to hear this Pete. I know Chief was more than special. It's a loss that no one can understand or know how one feels. R.I.P. Chief :salute:

Our toy female Peek-a-poo Brandy is 13 years old and is stuck to my side day and night. She's failing in small spurts and it's only a matter of time until she's gone or has to be put down. A car buddy of mine in Lousianna lost his Border Collie Lucy a few days before this past Thanksgiving from cancer. I can still hear it in his voice when I talk to him on the phone. At 68 he's getting ready to head up to Indianna to pick up a 7 week old Border Collie puppy and start over. I think when our 2 dogs and 2 cats are gone that's it for us. I've lost 3 cats and 3 dogs over the years and it sure ain't easy. .... it's actually gotten harder with each one.

Ron, I hope Haney pulls thru. Our Brandy is losing the use of her back legs. That is one of the hardest things to see and cope with. It makes me feel so helpless not knowing what to do to help her.

[Lateral-G]

I am still in shock. This past Monday, I took Chief to see a vet eye specialist, as I had noticed a spot in his right eye. The spot turned out to be a tumor. Coincidentally, the next morning, Chief would not eat, but I just figured that was because I'd given him some bread from a sandwich, and had upset his stomach.

But this morning, around 10:30, he threw up. That scared me. I took him to my local vet. They did an xray, and found a large mass in his stomach.

What happened next, still has me reeling. They referred me to a vet, south of Fort Myers. As soon as I got there, they took Chief back to do an ultrasound, and blood work.

About one hour later, I returned to get the results.

It was like being hit in my stomach. The vet said my poor Chief was riddled with cancer, including several nodules on his lungs.

I was immediately overcome with grief. It was horrible. I knew what I had to decide, and it ripped me apart to do it.

So, about 15 minutes later, as I held Chief's head in my lap, and I told him how much I loved him; crying uncontrollably.... I said goodbye to my best friend.

God, I miss him so.

NC


So very sorry to hear NC...

The same thing happened with our little Cocker this past October. He was fine then it was like flipping a switch, he went so fast.

[Navy Chief]

I found some pictures of Chief as a puppy (along with his buddy, "Robert Tail"). The picture of the mess on the porch was Chief's idea of what to do with a potty pad....

Pete

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5507755078

[Toastmaker]

How good of you to not let him suffer. Love given and love returned. So sorry you had to go through that.

[wbuchart]

NC, I'm sorry this happened. I know how you feel, I went through it a few Christmases ago myself. I've typed and deleted a lot of words right here because most words seem contrite.
Just remember the good life you gave Chief.....

Bill

[Odie]

NC, so sorry to hear of your loss. The same quickness overcame our beloved cat Whitey. It's been 3 years and sometimes
out of the corner of my eye, I'll catch a glimpse of him moving down the hall, and then he's gone. Just dropping in from
time to time to watch over us, I suppose.

http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/rbowx.gifRainbow Bridge http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/rbowx.gifJust this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

[Navy Chief]

NC, so sorry to hear of your loss. The same quickness overcame our beloved cat Whitey. It's been 3 years and sometimes
out of the corner of my eye, I'll catch a glimpse of him moving down the hall, and then he's gone. Just dropping in from
time to time to watch over us, I suppose.

http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/rbowx.gifRainbow Bridge http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/rbowx.gif

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....



I too, believe in the Rainbow Bridge. The very last thing I told Chief was that I would meet him there........ Pete
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[Ickie]

Haney is back to normal, this morning she beet me to the door to go outside on her own to chase the pharaoh cats out of the yard so i could feed the pigeons, she keeps them civil too.
She is eating and drinking and begging.:icon_lol:

the definition of stubborn is Haney

[Navy Chief]

Haney is back to normal, this morning she beet me to the door to go outside on her own to chase the pharaoh cats out of the yard so i could feed the pigeons, she keeps them civil too.
She is eating and drinking and begging.:icon_lol:

the definition of stubborn is Haney

Ickie,

It sounds like, from your description of her, that Haney is a survivor. Maybe call her "Haney the Wonder Dog"? Pete

[Prowler1111]

Pete and I became close friends via MSFS..so we usually have this skype meetings, since i dont have a video camera (while Pete does) i could see him and listen to him while he couldnt.Pretty often Chief was around, and it was more than usual that he began barking which drove my beagle insane (and ballistic) creating mayhem over my keyboard and desk, barking at chief.It was hilarious from Pete´s side, it wasn´t that much from mine, but it was something different...I think once Twist also appeared in the webcam driving Arnold even wilder.I´m very sorry Pete, that you had to go through this so soon, i know we talked about "when that day comes", but it was always in the far future.Sadly it was not meant to be, i´m with you brother, i really understand your pain.Hang in there, he is in a better place now..

Best regards

Prowler

[Navy Chief]

Pete and I became close friends via MSFS..so we usually have this skype meetings, since i dont have a video camera (while Pete does) i could see him and listen to him while he couldnt.Pretty often Chief was around, and it was more than usual that he began barking which drove my beagle insane (and ballistic) creating mayhem over my keyboard and desk, barking at chief.It was hilarious from Pete´s side, it wasn´t that much from mine, but it was something different...I think once Twist also appeared in the webcam driving Arnold even wilder.I´m very sorry Pete, that you had to go through this so soon, i know we talked about "when that day comes", but it was always in the far future.Sadly it was not meant to be, i´m with you brother, i really understand your pain.Hang in there, he is in a better place now..

Best regards

Prowler


Thanks Ron. Appreciate your sentiments. Yes, the Skype meetings with Chief by my side were hilarious. Your beagle, Arnold would be on your keyboard. I took that opportunity to get Chief barking (knowing, of course what the end result would be). Almost immediately, after hearing Chief's first deep bark, you would type...."NOOOOOOO!" I would be on the floor, laughing! Chief would bark on command, and once he heard Arnold bark, it was on! Pete
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[Quicksand]

Oh Chief... I am so sorry Ive been away from the Outhouse... I am so sorry to hear this and you are in my prayers my friend.. I've made these decisions before... Tears your heart out.. Grieving with you buddy..

[Navy Chief]

All these heartfelt responses have been such a blessing to me. Sharing how much Chief meant to me has helped me through so much of this grief. I wake up thinking, "Where's Chief?" And then reality hits hard.

Chief was a gift from God. He truly was. And being able to tell you all that has kept me from going over the edge.

Thank you.

Pete
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[Roadburner440]

Just have to remember Pete that things will get better, and that we are all here for you. Certaintly is cool seeing all the extra pictures of Chief on this thread. I have been in and out a lot lately so have not had many oppertunities to see any you may have posted. Is just ashame though with everything going on this year for you with the move, trying to sell your house, and now this. Being retired Navy though I am sure you know better than me eventually the storm passes, and there are sunny days ahead. Can't believe you would do that to Ron though. No wonder Razbam projects have been held up in the past. :icon_lol: Getting his dog worked up must have been a sight.

[Navy Chief]

Just have to remember Pete that things will get better, and that we are all here for you. Certaintly is cool seeing all the extra pictures of Chief on this thread. I have been in and out a lot lately so have not had many oppertunities to see any you may have posted. Is just ashame though with everything going on this year for you with the move, trying to sell your house, and now this. Being retired Navy though I am sure you know better than me eventually the storm passes, and there are sunny days ahead. Can't believe you would do that to Ron though. No wonder Razbam projects have been held up in the past. :icon_lol: Getting his dog worked up must have been a sight.

Something that you (or anyone else on SOH would not know) is that Ron's beagle, "Arnold", was named after a beagle I had in the early 80s. Ron named his beagle in honor of him.

Pete

[Ickie]

I just got back from the Vet, he changed Haneys pills to one called vetprofin to 1/2 pill twice a day every day, it relaced rimadil which she was on as needed. He was a little surrised to see her. He said "I see she is still getting enough to eat".:icon_lol:

[Tako_Kichi]

He said "I see she is still getting enough to eat".:icon_lol:
I think that might be vet-speak for 'She's overweight, put her on a diet!' :icon_lol:

I hope the new pills help her out.